"These results trouble us and are not reflective of the opinions of Google. Sometimes, the way images are described on the internet can yield surprising results to specific queries. We apologise for any confusion or misunderstanding this has caused. We're continually working to improve our algorithms to prevent unexpected results like this," IANS quoted a Google spokesperson as saying in a statement.

It said that Modi appeared in the image search result because a British daily had his picture and an erroneous metadata.

It further explained that Modi's image did not appear because he is related to any criminal activity, but because there were news articles that quoted his views on politicians with criminal background.

The statement said that the search result for criminals threw Modi's image because they were in close proximity to each other.